It’s almost two months into the 2024-2025 school year, and Corry’s new sixth grade students have some mixed feelings on the new school. Today I questioned several of the new sixth graders to see what they really think about their new middle school lives. In the process, I also thought of suggestions that will hopefully make their middle school lives easier.

Many have enjoyed their experiences so far and believe school comes easy, such as Brice Baulm, who said, “School is good if you pay attention.” The more you actively engage in a lesson, or with your teacher, maybe even your friends, the easier school is. This actually leads to having some fun, which can also help school go better. 

Holden Brewer stated, “It doesn’t take much to be a good person in life.” Yes, Holden, you are absolutely right. Simple acts can aim you to success, especially in school. 

Levi Daniels said, “Don’t judge where you should be judged.” Sixth grade, don’t judge people on how your classmates dress, or how they look. This can and will lead to problems within you and your peer group. (This goes for everyone as well, especially the students in older grades. Don’t be mean or make a judgment on anyone, but specifically to the new middle schoolers, because you have been in their position before.)

Although some of these sixth graders believe school is good so far, some have claimed that there are some downsides too. It may not necessarily be about the experience in general, but because there is more responsibility and, of course, a few challenges along the way. 

One of the biggest challenges that I was told was from Rebecca Ormsbee, who said,  “Always needing a charged Chromebook.” This goes with anything, but the small challenges that you face now will naturally become easier to you, even if it only involves a charged Chromebook. This can help prepare for the future, and teach students about why it is important to be prepared, both mentally and physically. 

This shows that despite the challenges new sixth graders may face, overall, it has been a great experience so far. This goes to show that these students can become better people through their middle school years, and maybe even enjoy school a bit more.